PLYMOUTH, N.H.-
On Friday, November 6, the Center for Rural Partnerships will welcome Professor Erick Eschker of Humboldt State University to discuss the Humboldt Economic Index, a cooperative model for tracking the economy of rural regions. This index, which addresses a rural region in Northern California, is the inspiration for the North Country Economic Index (NCEI), created by PSU professors Dan Lee and Vedran Lelas. The NCEI will provide more precise economic information about the Granite State’s northern most counties to interested businesses, families, charities and lawmakers, said Thad Guldbrandsen, executive director of the PSU based Center for Rural Partnerships.

“If a business is thinking about whether or not to make an investment or expand in a region, that’s a risky enterprise,” said Guldbrandsen. “This data will provide new reliable information that will enable businesses to have more confidence in the decisions they make.”

The information also will be useful for charitable organizations trying to assess the impact of their programs, government agencies and policymakers, and individuals deciding whether to buy a home or change careers, Guldbrandsen said.

Dr. Escker’s presentation will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Heritage Commons. In addition, those interested may attend an informal discussion beginning at 11:30 a.m. in Prospect Dining Hall (lunch will be available for purchase). For more information, contact Ben Amsden, or call 535-3274.